The Best Time to Adopt a Dog

By Beth Lazar

You have committed to owning a dog. You have also committed to save a life and rescue said dog. You may have even researched the type of dog you want to be a part of your family. Here are some other issues to consider before you bring home your newest family member:

The Dog

A common misconception is that rescue organizations will adopt any dog to anyone who is interested. They need to find homes for these dogs right? Just because you want a big dog does not mean that adoption centers are going to allow you to have one. Some centers will even do a lifestyle check to find out if what you want is really what will work best in your home and family. The match between owner and adopted dog should make sense. For example, You should not get an active puppy if you don’t have time to play with it or time for significant exercise with it each day.

Your personality will determine what type of pet is a best fit for your lifestyle. Being a pet owner is a big responsibility. Most animal shelter are concerned about placing their dogs in a situation that will be beneficial to both you and your chosen pet. The better they match the best situation up front, the less likely the animal will be returned or mistreated.

The Costs

The cost associated with bringing home a new pet is certainly a factor that must be prepared for. Acquiring a pet through a rescue organization is typically less pricey than a commercial pet store or a breeder, but your new dog will have ongoing expenses as well.

Supplies

Initial expenses for a household that is new to dog ownership will include one time purchases of: a food bowl, a water bowl, a collar, a leash, and identification tags. Optional items include: a dog bed, dog toys (a good idea if you are bringing home a chewer!), dog treats, poop scooper, and a doggy door. Also recommended is a good supply of cheap towels for wiping muddy paws and drying wet fur so that your house doesn’t bear the brunt of the dog’s outdoor adventures.

Your dog will also need to eat regularly as well. The typical feeding schedule for adult dogs is twice a day – for puppies, many veterinarians recommend adding a third meal in the middle of the day. The type of dog food on the market is as various in flavor as it is in price. Look for a good quality brand without a lot of fillers. Your veterinarian can make quality recommendations on food. Keep in mind that higher quality food will cost more up front but the amount of food your dog will need to eat will be reduced (as will the amount of poop) as it is not full of fillers.

Health Care

Some veterinarians will offer a free initial exam for adopted animals in order to allow you to preview their services to entice you to potentially become a long term patient. Also consider that just like you, your new furry friend may get sick or injured from time to time so be prepared with extra budget to be able to handle whatever situation may arise. If these unexpected bills are a concern, pet health insurance can alleviate these concerns and ensure ongoing quality care for your dog.

The Timing

The best time for an adoption is, of course, when you are prepared in all aspects mentioned in this article, but if you are looking for the largest number of options and potentially reduced adoption fees, it might make sense to seek out the shelters in springtime and early fall. These are the typical breeding seasons so the rescue organizations will tend to have more and a larger variation of animals for adoption.